For a study in which 66 ATM stations were swabbed and tested across New York City, researchers found a myriad of microorganisms. They were found to be relatively harmless, with most being the same organisms that are found on our skin and other surfaces we touch on a regular basis. The keypads were also found to have traces of chicken, fish, and seafood. The surfaces of the ATMs can be thought of as a microcosm of the fingerprint of New York City residents.
Trilobites: Your A.T.M. Is Covered in Microbes, but Mostly Harmless